Letters: Not just any nurse can be a school nurse

I read with dismay the article "Budget ax threatens school nurses" (Monday). How unfortunate that State Sen. Jeffrey Piccola and Jennifer Hoover-Vogel of the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials were not better informed about the role of the certified school nurse before advocating a policy that would allow school districts to hire uncertified nurses.

School nursing is a community health specialty. As pointed out by experts quoted in the article, it is ridiculous to suggest that just any nurse can with minimal training assume the responsibilities of a school nurse.

The article cites savings to districts throughout the state, but the portion of the budget that pays for school nurses' salaries pales when compared to costs of other personnel. Perhaps it is the intent of the advocates of Senate Bill 802 to use nurses as a wedge to crack open the door to permitting the hiring of uncertified teachers, counselors, principals, and administrators. But whatever the motive, we should think carefully before jeopardizing the health and safety of Pennsylvania's school children.

Suzanne Hauser Holland, RN, MSN

Meadowbrook